Chicago Blackhawks young star declines contract offer and will officially test free agency

It's quite an intriguing time to be a Blackhawks fan, but an exciting one to say the least. The organization is on a bright path, and those leading them back to a winning culture are a handful of youth that have been acquired via the draft by general manager Kyle Davidson.

During the team's season-exit interviews conducted by media of the organization on Thursday, general manager Kyle Davidson revealed that one of their prominent prospects has declined a 'pretty damn good' opportunity and a contract offer.

Forward Dominic James, who was expected to sign his entry-level contract with the Chicago Blackhawks this summer after completing his schooling and NCAA college hockey season, has informed the organization that he'll be going into free agency this summer.

James, 22, was deemed one of the biggest steals by the Blackhawks in 2022 at the draft.

Turning down a 'pretty damn good opportunity' with Chicago will surely come back to bite the former 2022 NHL draft selection, but with the highly touted prospect pool that the Blackhawks hold, James would certainly be on the outskirts.

His 30 points in 35-games with the University of Minnesota Duluth will make him a hot commodity come July 1st free agency, but Kyle Davidson sends him an open invitation to still sign with the Blackhawks if he does not find a fit.